Second annual Svatý Mikuláš event checks all the boxes for holiday fun

Building on its inaugural year, the second Svatý Mikuláš, or Saint Nicholas, celebration brought more than 200 people to The Rustic Farmer and Revival on Main on Sunday.

The celebration, themed as a Czech Country Christmas event, featured a variety of vendors selling Czech gifts and baked goods. Zelnikys and kolackys were offered along with traditional Czech dishes like vomacka, halušky, and Czech hotdogs.

Kids attending were given a bag that they could decorate before meeting with Saint Nicholas, who was accompanied by the Devil and the Angel to find out if each child was bad or good this year.

Music was provided by Kenny Pomije and Colton Tupy who opened festivities with songs played on the concertina. The duo mixed standard holiday tunes with traditional Czech numbers.

Czech dancing was demonstrated by the St. Paul Czech and Slovak Adult Folk Dancers. The group was formed in 1962 to display Czech culture, which also consists of Bohemian, Moravian and Slovak cultures. Each member wore various traditional costumes that represent several different styles within the Czech region of Europe.

Sokol Children presented Czech and Slovak Christmas traditions.

Fifth through eighth graders comprising the Singing Angels choir from Most Holy Redeemer Catholic School performed carols. “We like this season because we get to go out and share our music with others,” said Christine Trcka, Singing Angels director.

Special guest to the celebration was Marit Lee Kucera, Honorary Consul for the Czech Republic in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota. Kucera gave information about the Czech Republic to visitors at the event. 

Horse and carriage rides were provided by Sharon Cartway Belgians, a new feature of the event this year.

The event was presented by The Rustic Farmer and Revival on Main, Miss Czech-Slovak Minnesota Pageant committee, Czech Heritage Club and the Montgomery Arts and Heritage Center.

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